Planning a cozy getaway for Thanksgiving in New England? Then you’ve come to the right place! November and the Thanksgiving season just so happens to be one of my favorite times of the year in this corner of the world, and there are so many wonderful and homey places to go to celebrate the holiday.
Whether you’re traveling from out of town to see family and want to add on a few extra nights for yourself, or you’re looking to mix things up a bit by booking a snuggly room at an inn and have someone else take care of Thanksgiving dinner, I have some fantastic suggestions for you!
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Coziest Thanksgiving Getaways In New England
1. Plymouth, Massachusetts
Undoubtedly the most popular New England destination to visit for Thanksgiving is Plymouth, Massachusetts – for very obvious reasons š In fact, Thanksgiving festivities in Plymouth start the weekend before, so if you’re looking for a festive November getaway but still want to be home for Thanksgiving day, you can easily celebrate here.
That said, Plymouth puts on a wonderful Thanksgiving day experience that’s like no other in the country. The Plimoth Patuxet Museum hosts a very special and historically accurate Thanksgiving dinner on the actual holiday, complete with Pilgrim actors, and the same menu that was served to President Lincoln the day he declared Thanksgiving a national holiday.
If you’re visiting the weekend before Thanksgiving, you’ll be able to attend America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration, which includes a fantastic parade, complete with a finale that features Santa’s arrival, and tons (and I mean tons!) of confetti. It’s such a fun way to kick off the holidays in New England.
Other events during the Hometown Celebration include a beer and wine garden, food truck events, children’s pavilion, and of course, lots of historic reenactments of not just the first Thanksgiving, but what life was like after the Mayflower landed.
Additionally, Plymouth is a lovely coastal community that’s filled with beautiful parks, beaches, a lovely downtown with shops, and lots of history, so you’ll have plenty of things to do to keep you occupied during your holiday.
Where To Stay In Plymouth For Thanksgiving
š Mirbeau Inn & Spa: Offering the best of both worlds, Mirbeau feels like an escape to the French countryside, while still being perfectly nestle into New England tradition. With one of the best full-service spas in the region on-site, incredibly cozy rooms, and a special Thanksgiving dinner event, this is the absolute best place to stay for your Thanksgiving holiday in Plymouth!
I also have an entire post all about my experiences at Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Plymouth, if you’d like to check that out!
- Special Thanksgiving dinner event on Thanksgiving day
- Each room comes with a soaking tub and cozy fireplace
- On-site dining for breakfast and lunch, too!
- Absolutely fantastic spa, perfect for a relaxing getaway that includes a little pampering
- Gorgeous grounds
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at Mirbeau Inn & Spa
Weather in Plymouth around Thanksgiving is typically a bit warmer than the rest of New England, with day time averages about 50Ā°F, and dipping into the low 40sĀ°F at night. Snow isn’t likely in Plymouth for the holiday.
Psst! I have an entire post on things that make Plymouth, MA worth visiting, if you need more ideas for your trip!
2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
For a coastal Thanksgiving in New England experience, Cape Cod is one of the best options. Filled with 15 quaint and homey towns to explore, cozy places to stay, and some of the most stunning coastline views along the East Coast, you have a recipe for an incredible Thanksgiving vacation.
A Thanksgiving on Cape Cod will include many of the best things to do in the region year-round, which are gorgeous walks on beaches, scenic hikes and nature walks, lighthouses, amazing seafood, wonderful shopping, plus all the New England charm you could dream of – all without the crowds. You’ll have have to trade your swimsuit for a sweater and hat, but you’ll get a dose of salty air to make up for it š
Thanksgiving is typically a quiet time on Cape Cod, and also tends to be one of the more affordable seasons to visit. If you’ve been wanting to visit this area but are on a budget, this is a wonderful trip to plan! It’s also not too far from Plymouth, so you could combine both into the same getaway.
There are also lots of places around the Cape that offer a wonderful Thanksgiving feast, so you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to finding a dinner event.
The Friday after Thanksgiving commences the Christmas and holiday festivities around Cape Cod as well, so if you happen to stay through the weekend, expect tree lightings, decorations, and the very magical Gardens Aglow exhibit at the Heritage Museum in Sandwich.
Where To Stay On Cape Cod For Thanksgiving
š The Chatham Bars Inn: Regarded as Cape Cod’s most beautiful address, and with a prime location across the street from a beach, and walkability to Main Street, this luxury resort is perfect for a Thanksgiving getaway. With prices dropping this time of the year, it’s also a more affordable time to book this resort to experience it once in your life.
They also offer an incredible Thanksgiving buffet that’s the best place for dinner in the region, and it typically includes a seafood on ice display with lobsters, oysters, caviar, soups, breads, carving stations, lots of sides to choose from, crab cakes, and a huge dessert spread – and that’s just scratching the surface – no seriously!
- On-site dining options, plus a special Thanksgiving buffet experience that’s to die for
- Private beachfront access for brisk fall walks
- On-site spa for the ultimate day of relaxation
- Gorgeous rooms, many with balconies or patios
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Chatham Bars Inn
š Pelham House Resort: Beautiful beachfront hotel that also serves a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner, with a very cool rooftop cocktail hour beforehand featuring appetizers and hand-rolled sushi.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Pelham House
š Dan’l Webster Inn: A beautiful New England-style traditional inn that feels cozy, and has rooms with fireplaces available. Also has on-site dining and a spa. They also do a fantastic Thanksgiving dinner right at the hotel.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & available at the Dan’l Webster Inn
Weather on Cape Cod around Thanksgiving is very similar to Plymouth’s, and tends to run a bit warmer than the rest of New England. Day time average temperatures are around 53Ā°F, with night time average around 40Ā°F. Snow isn’t likely for Thanksgiving.
I have tons of posts on Cape Cod, but I recommend starting here:
- Visiting Cape Cod For The First Time
- Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
- Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Fall
- Most Scenic Walking & Hiking Trails On Cape Cod (which are especially perfect in November!)
3. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Going along with Cape Cod, Nantucket is another absolutely wonderful way to spend Thanksgiving in New England, for many of the same reasons. This is a much less crowded time to visit, you’ll find cheaper rates at hotels, and there are some lovely Thanksgiving dinner experiences to check out.
While its natural beauty and postcard-worthy scenery are the reasons many people visit, the holidays are such a great time to experience the island to see what a wonderful community the island truly is. It’s very heartwarming to see the year-rounders come together and celebrate the season, and you’ll also experience that the week of Thanksgiving.
For a thrill on Thanksgiving morning, you’ll want to sign up for the Turkey Plunge, which benefits the children’s library on the island. Join hundreds of others and jump into the freezing cold water to start your day off in an exhilarating way!
The Friday after Thanksgiving, the Christmas festivities will begin, so you’ll get to experience this magical time on the island, too.
Where To Stay On Nantucket For Thanksgiving
š The Nantucket Hotel & Resort: The perfect home base for your Thanksgiving on Nantucket getaway. Beautiful rooms, combined with a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner event makes your holiday memorable. But the ideal location that’s walkable to everything in downtown Nantucket makes it easy, too.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Nantucket Hotel & Resort
š Book A House Vacation Rental For The Dreamiest Seaside Thanksgiving! Gather your family and friends and book an entire house on the island. Rates this time of the year will be much cheaper than the summer season. Grab some farm-fresh ingredients from Bartlett Farms on the island, cook a spectacular feast, and book a house with outdoor seating because it may just be warm enough to eat outside with the salty air surrounding you.
š Click here to check out Nantucket house rentals on VRBO
Weather on Nantucket during Thanksgiving is similar to Cape Cod and Plymouth, and averages about 50Ā°F during the day, and 35-40Ā°F at night.
4. Kennebunkport, Maine
Heading further up north to Maine, Kennebunkport is a fantastic getaway for Thanksgiving. As another close-knit and charming coastal town in New England, it’s packed with New England charm around every corner, and offers a relaxing getaway with so much to do.
Spend your days in a quintessential coastal New England town, shop in Dock Square, walk on the beaches, and enjoy amazing food. This is another destination where hotel rates are much less than the summer season, and you’ll find far fewer crowds around.
For Thanksgiving dinner in Kennebunkport, the White Barn Inn is the place to go. This luxury resort in Kennebunk (yes, different from Kennebunkport š, but very close by!) is known for their Thanksgiving feast in their absolutely stunning, renovated barn. Enjoy your dinner with a view of giant pumpkins and autumnal flowers.
Where To Stay In Kennebunkport For Thanksgiving
š White Barn Inn: Since this is the premier Thanksgiving dining experience in town, why not book a room? While this is a luxury resort, rates tend to be lower this time of the year, and they offer special Thanksgiving events throughout the weekend.
White Barn Inn Thanksgiving Highlights:
- Memorable Thanksgiving day dinner in the most gorgeous renovated barn
- Special cocktail hour and thankfullness toast the night before Thanksgiving
- Thanksgiving morning gratitude hike
- Afternoon tea the Sunday after Thanksgiving for the perfect send-off after your getaway
- Absolutely stunning rooms, with options for suites that have a fireplace next to a soaking tub
- On-site dining and spa
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the White Barn Inn
š Kennebunkport Captains Collection: A grouping of renovated historic homes, the Captains Collection makes for a cozy getaway in the area during the Thanksgiving holiday. With beautiful furnishings and stylish decor, it’ll be hard to forget you’re in New England during your stay. Some rooms also come with a fireplace for an extra cozy factor.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Captains Collection
Weather in Kennebunkport during Thanksgiving averages about 50Ā°F during the day, and 35Ā°F at night.
5. Woodstock, Vermont
As one of the most picturesque and charming towns in Vermont, Woodstock makes for a memorable Thanksgiving getaway. Here, you’ll find covered bridges, a quaint town feel, gorgeous countryside scenery, and lots of wonderful ways to celebrate Thanksgiving!
On Thanksgiving day, enjoy a scrumptious buffet at the Woodstock Inn & Resort right in the village, which is known as Vermont’s most beautiful address (you’ll see why as you walk along their pumpkin-lined entrance).
Throughout the weekend, though, your Thanksgivig festivities continue at the Billings Farm & Museum, which is one the top agricultural museums in the entire country, and one of the most fun things to do in Woodstock, Vermont. Starting the Friday after Thanksgiving, and going through Sunday, Billings continues to celebrate with Thanksgiving on the Farm. Events include 19th century Thanksgiving traditions, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, and lots of food.
Where To Stay In Woodstock During Thanksgiving
š Woodstock Inn & Resort: As mentioned, this is Vermont’s most beautiful address and they host their incredible Thanksgiving buffet, so booking a room here for your getaway is a wonderful idea. Enjoy a harvest ambience, a perfect location that’s walkable to the village and Middle Covered Bridge, and not have to stray far for Thanksgiving dinner.
Woodstock Inn & Resort Highlights:
- Beautiful fall decor outside the property
- Gorgeous and cozy rooms
- Grounds border the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, so lots of scenic walking trails are nearby, and admission to the park is included with your room
- Dining and spa on-site
- Indoor pool
- Afternoon tea and cookies
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Woodstock Inn & Resort
š 506 On The River Inn: A truly cozy and welcoming hotel that sits right along the Ottauquechee River. The modern-rustic decor inside the hotel is a fantastic compliment to the season, and they also have a fantastic bistro on-site that serves up fall-themed cocktails, and a delicious seasonal menu. In fact, they’re known for their specialty cocktails, so if you don’t stay here, at least swing by for a drink š
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the 506 On The River Inn
The weather in Woodstock, VT around Thanksgiving averages about 45-47Ā°F during the day, and around 28Ā°F at night. You’ll want to bundle up! It’s possible you could get snow in this area.
6. Stowe, Vermont
Another incredibly charming town in Vermont that also makes for a cozy Thanksgiving in New England is Stowe. And this is personally one of my favorite places to visit in the entire region š With a charming village filled with country stores and boutiques, covered bridges nearby, beautiful mountain scenery, one of the best ski resorts in New England, and excellent dining options, you’ll never be bored in Stowe – even during Thanksgiving week!
One of the biggest perks to Thanksgiving in Stowe is that this is typically when Stowe Mountain Ski Resort opens for the season, so skiers can enjoy the best of both worlds. This is dependent on weather conditions each year, but since the resort makes its own snow this early in the season, it’s usually open around Thanksgiving.
Even if you’re not a skier, there are so many wonderful things to check out in Stowe this time of the year, including some nice Thanksgiving dinner experiences. You can also check out the local breweries and cideries (which usually have some nice seasonal releases!), take a relaxing walk on the Recreation Path, and dine at the fabulous restaurants.
For Thanksgiving dinner in Stowe, you can check out the Lodge at Spruce Peak, the 18 Main, and the Trapp Family Lodge.
Where To Stay In Stowe For Thanksgiving
š The Lodge At Spruce Peak: This is one of the best resorts to stay at in Stowe year-round, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Be surrounded by the mountains, and a enjoy ski-in/ski-out atmosphere, right at the resort. Since there’s also a wonderful Thanksgiving buffet right at the resort, you won’t need to go far for dinner!
Lodge At Spruce Peak Highlights:
- On-site dining and spa
- Fabulous Thanksgiving buffet with local cheese boards, soups, carving stations, a kid’s menu, dessert spread, and tons more
- Cozy rooms, with options for separate tubs, fireplaces and mountain views
- On-site village with cute little shops
- Ski-in/ski-out
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Lodge at Spruce Peak
š Green Mountain Inn: This cozy New England-style inn is right on Main Street in the village, and walkable to all the shops, cafĆ©s, and the Recreation Path. They also put on a fantastic Thanksgiving dinner, and offer a really nice Thanksgiving package that includes dinner, your room, and a full Vermont country breakfast each morning of your stay.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Green Mountain Inn
š Trapp Family Lodge: Yep, that Trapp Family Lodge! This luxury Austrian-inspired hotel makes for a very cozy getaway this time of the year, and also features a wonderful Thanksgiving buffet experience.
Trapp Family Lodge Highlights:
- Really nice Thanksgiving day buffet
- On-site spa, dining, and bierhall
- Hiking and walking trails around the property
- Cozy rooms
- Yoga classes
- Outdoor hot tub that’s open year-round
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Trapp Family Lodge
Weather in Stowe during Thanksgiving averages 32-35Ā°F during the day, and 20Ā°F at night. This is another destination where you’ll want to bundle up, and know you could potentially get some snow.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
As New England’s biggest city, Boston is pretty much always a good idea, even during Thanksgiving. If you’re looking to plan a city escape during the holiday this year, this is a fantastic destination because you’ll find some pretty nice hotel rates, and the crowds will be minimal.
Lots of restaurants around the city offer amazing Thanksgiving day dinners and buffets, so you definitely won’t go hungry! And while many places will be closed Thanksgiving day, you’ll still have plenty to do the days before and after Thanksgiving, including food tours, museums, awesome Black Friday shopping, The Nutcracker shows, and lots more.
If you’re looking to work up a sweat before dinner, you can also sign up for the Franklin Park Coalitionās Turkey Trot 5K, which takes place Thanksgiving morning.
If you stay through the weekend, you’ll also get to experience Boston’s holiday magic, as some of the lights begin to turn on the day after Thanksgiving, including at the Public Gardens!
Where To Stay In Boston For Thanksgiving
š Boston Harbor Hotel: Since it’s home to a wonderful Thanksgiving lunch buffet, it’ll be an even more stress-free getaway to stay right at the hotel. With a location right on the water, beautiful rooms, and luxury at every turn, this one is hard to beat for Turkey Day.
Boston Harbor Hotel Highlights:
- Spacious rooms, many with harbor views
- Wonderful Thanksgiving lunch buffet, which often features live music, all the traditional fixin’s, a dessert spread, and some non-traditional offerings
- On-site dining, a fantastic bar with great cocktails, and room service options
- Fitness center with an indoor pool and steam rooms
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Boston Harbor Hotel
š Fairmont Copley Plaza: Also home to another wonderful Thanksgiving dining experience, this hotel is a great choice for your getaway. A short walk from Newbury Street and the public gardens, this is also a great location.
Fairmont Copley Plaza Highlights:
- Luxury accommodations in a great location
- Wonderful Thanksgiving day dining experience at Oak Long Bar + Kitchen, the on-site restaurant
- Room service available
- Fitness center
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Fairmont Copley Plaza
Boston weather during Thanksgiving averages around 52-55Ā°F during the day, and dips down to around 38-40Ā°F at night.
8. Camden, Maine
For a coastal getaway in Midcoast Maine, Camden is such a wonderful option! Not only is the town itself so charming, it’s surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. With so many things to do that involve both indoor and outdoor activities, it’s a great place to unwind with fewer crowds this Thanksgiving.
During your getaway, grab an artisanal cup of coffee and a famous “whalers biscuit” at Whistling Whale Coffee before hitting up the darling Main Street. Take in the beautiful views of the harbor, which is right off Main Street.
Camden Hills State Park offers some really lovely hikes, and while the auto road to the summit of Mt. Battie, which offers incredible bird’s eye views of Camden Harbor, can sometimes be closed based on weather in November, there’s also a chance it could be open! Hikers can also access the summit with a nice hike up to work off your Thanksgiving dinner.
Additionally, Camden has a very heartwarming tradition that you can enjoy during your visit, which is the lighting at the Mount Battie Star. Every year on the night of Thanksgiving, the town lights up a giant star on the World War I Memorial Tower at the summit, and the event is open to the public.
What I love about Camden is its proximity to a lot of great places around Maine, including some really beautiful lighthouses. After your Thanksgiving dinner, you could also plan a full day of driving around to see some of the prettiest lighthouses in Maine, including Owls Head, Rockland Breakwater, and Marshall Point, which was featured in the movie Forrest Gump! You’ll hardly run into any other people this time of the year, too š
For some holiday cheer, you can also choose to visit the neighboring town of Rockport, which is just a few minutes from Camden, and enjoy their Festival of Lights event. Taking place the day after Thanksgiving, the entire town will be aglow with twinkle lights and holiday decorations to kick off the season.
Where To Stay In Camden For Thanksgiving
š Camden Harbour Inn: The perfect place to stay for a getaway this time of the year because they offer a really nice Thanksgiving package, which includes two nights of accommodations, and a gourmet 5-course Thanksgiving dinner at their cozy restaurant, Natalie’s. The inn also has a spa on-site for ultimate indulgence.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Camden Harbour Inn
Weather in Camden during Thanksgiving typically averages about 40Ā°F during the day, and 30Ā°F at night.
9. Woodstock, New Hampshire
For a quiet, casual getaway in the woods for the Thanksgiving holiday, Woodstock is definitely a place to consider! Located in the White Mountains region of the state, you’ll be rewarded with stunning mountain views, cozy places to stay, and tons of nature to explore.
If you’re looking for more of a possibility of snow, this should be at the top of your list, as the White Mountains region typically sees its first snowfall in October, and there’s usually snow by Thanksgiving – with ski resorts open this time of the year, too. Loon Mountain, which is just a few minutes from Woodstock, typically opens by mid-November.
If you’re not into skiing, there are still plenty of fun things to do in the area. Woodstock is just a few minutes from the start of the famous Kancamagus Highway, which is most popular in the fall season, but still impressive and worth driving this time of the year. I drove it once in the winter and was just as impressed with it as I was in the fall.
Nearby, you can also explore the cute town of Littleton – famous for its Main Street and for having the world’s longest candy counter! And while Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park is closed this time of the year, you can still hike to the beautiful covered bridge, and access part of the trail.
Where To Stay In Woodstock For Thanksgiving
š Woodstock Inn & Brewery: A relaxed rustic and cozy inn that offers a really cool Thanksgiving buffet on Thanksgiving day. Serving up everything you could possibly want and more, including appetizers, starches, a carving station with turkey and prime rib, fish, and an awesome dessert spread. Thanksgiving packages are also available, which includes dinner, two nights of accommodations, and daily breakfast.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Woodstock Inn & Brewery
Weather in Woodstock during Thanksgiving averages around 35Ā°F during the day, and 23Ā°F at night.
10. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
For a more luxury experience in the White Mountains, you can head over to Bretton Woods. Located in the northern part of the region, and close to Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England, it’s also got a fantastic ski resort that typically opens before Thanksgiving.
When you’re not hitting the slopes, you can also take a ride on The Cog, which is the very first mountain railway in the entire world, and still one of the coolest things to do in the region! While they can’t go to the summit this time of the weather because of weather, they do take visitors to Waumbek Station for roasting marshmallows backdropped by incredible mountain views.
Where To Stay In Bretton Woods For Thanksgiving
š Omni Mount Washington Resort: Undoubtedly one of the best old-world resorts in New England, it also makes for a fantastic place to stay during Thanksgiving. Nestled into the mountains with stunning views around the entire property, it’s worth a stay just for the location and all their wonderful Thanksgiving week events.
Omni Mount Washington Resort Highlights:
- Awesome Thanksgiving week celebrations from Wednesday through Sunday. Events include family movie nights, crafting, special viewings of the Thanksgiving Parade, football game viewings, turkey trot runs, yoga, holiday workshops, cookies and cocoa with Santa, and so much more.
- Amazing Thanksgiving buffet experience at the resort.
- Lots of dining options, and a spa on-site.
- Free shuttles to the slopes.
- Indoor pool.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Omni Mount Washington Resort
Weather in Bretton Woods during Thanksgiving averages around 38Ā°F during the day, and 20Ā°F at night.
11. Dover, Vermont
For a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgiving getaway, look no further than charming Dover. Located in southern Vermont, this area is lesser-known than places like Woodstock and Stowe, but offers such a restorative escape, especially this time of the year. This is the perfect place to enjoy small town life in a beautiful setting.
Known for its ski resort, Mount Snow, skiing is typically open just before Thanksgiving, so you also have the option to the hit slopes on your getaway. If that’s not your speed, you can spend your time enjoying the scenic Valley Trail, sipping on local beers at Snow Republic Brewery, exploring the quaint town, and visiting other destinations nearby in southern Vermont.
Where To Stay In Dover For Thanksgiving
Hermitage Inn: Idyllic grounds, gorgeous scenery, cozy rooms, and fantastic dining make this the perfect place to stay for Thanksgiving. You’ll also fall in love with it as soon as you cross the cute covered bridge to enter the property – trust me š
š Hermitage Inn Highlights:
- Wonderful dining experience on Thanksgiving day
- Recently renovated rooms that are modern, stylish, and cozy (but still packed with historic New England charm)
- Wine tastings available – they even won a Best Of award from Wine Spectator!
- Pastry classes with the inn’s pastry chef
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Hermitage Inn
Weather in Dover during Thanksgiving averages around 40Ā°F during the day, and 20Ā°F at night.
12. Killington, Vermont
My last suggestion for you for a Thanksgiving getaway that includes skiing is Killington. The ski resort here typically opens by mid-November, so you should definitely be able to hit the slopes during your holiday getaway.
Killington also hosts a fun 5K Turkey Trot the morning of Thanksgiving, and is packed with cozy places to stay, no matter how long you plan to visit.
There are also some great Thanksgiving dinner experiences to check out in the area, including The Foundry at Summit Pond and Wobbly Barn, which is more of a party scene with live music.
Where To Stay In Killington For Thanksgiving
š Killington Grand Resort: The closest hotel to the slopes! But the mountain views from the hotel aren’t bad, either š Also enjoy an outdoor heated pool that’s open this time of the year, as well as cozy fire pits to stay warm outside.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability for the Killington Grand Resort
š Vacation Rental: There are tons of great vacation rentals all over the Killington area, so if you’re looking to travel with a group, and want to do all your own cooking in the mountains for the holiday, check out some of the best houses for rent!
š Click here to check Killington vacation rentals for Thanksgiving
Weather in Killington during Thanksgiving averages around 40Ā°F during the day, and 25Ā°F at night.
13. Newport, Rhode Island
As one of the premier culinary cities in New England, this is such a special place to experience the Thanksgiving holiday. Not only will you have so many options to choose from for a special Thanksgiving dinner experience, you’ll also get to enjoy fewer crowds, beautiful coastal scenery, and the start of the Christmas holiday festivities.
For Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll want to check out these awesome places offering the perfect feast or buffet:
- The Chanler At Cliff Walk
- Clarke Cook House
- Castle Hill Inn
- Hotel Viking
The rest of your days, enjoy everything that’s great about Newport, including the historic streets, gorgeous waterfront, Ocean Avenue, Gilded Age Mansions, and shopping during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.
Where To Stay In Newport For Thanksgiving
š Castle Hill Inn: Since it offers a lovely 3-course Thanksgiving dinner, you may as well splurge and book a room here, too. Right on the waterfront, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in Newport, and this time of the year, rates are much less than peak summer, and even fall dates (still a splurge, but such a fun way to treat yourself on Thanksgiving!).
- On-site dining and spa
- Gorgeous waterfront location
- Walkable to the cute Castle Hill Lighthouse, which makes for memorable photos
- Beautiful rooms and waterfront cottages available
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Castle Hill Inn
šSerenity Inn: A cozy and traditionally New England style inn that’s in a great location, and offers really nice rates during November, and the week of Thanksgiving. Breakfast is also included with your stay!
šš Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Serenity Inn
Weather in Newport during Thanksgiving averages around 53Ā°F during the day, and 40Ā°F at night.
14. Essex, Connecticut
As one of the most charming and picturesque small towns in Connecticut, Essex is a no-brainer for a quaint Thanksgiving getaway in the region. Between a gorgeous Main Street with independent boutiques, riverfront scenery, and one of the best inns in the state (but more on that in a sec š), it makes for a wonderfully cozy Thanksgiving vacation.
During the week of Thanksgiving (with the exception of Thanksgiving day), you can visit the Connecticut River Museum for a fun dose of history. The Essex Steam Train Christmas rides also begin a few days before Thanksgiving, and continue through the Thanksgiving week (and into December, of course!).
Where To Stay In Essex For Thanksgiving
šGriswold Inn: One of the main reasons Essex makes for one of the best Thanksgiving getaways is because of the truly wonderful Griswold Inn. Modern, while also frozen in time, and quintessentially New England, it hosts a wonderful Thanksgiving feast, and provides the comfiest, coziest place to stay.
šClick here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Griswold Inn
Weather in Essex during Thanksgiving averages around 50Ā°F during the day, and 40Ā°F at night.
15. Simsbury, Connecticut
Last but certainly not least, definitely check out the charming town of Simsbury in Connecticut for a lovely Thanksgiving holiday. Located in the northern part of the state between Hartford and the Litchfield Hills countryside, it’s home to a cute little downtown area, beautiful farmland scenery, great restaurants, and cozy places to stay.
For a memorable Thanksgiving dinner in a cozy and gorgeous rustic setting, definitely look into booking a table at Millwright’s. They offer a fantastic 3-course prix fixe dinner service, with many tables overlooking the scenic pond and brook. But since Simsbury is home to so many great restaurants, you can also look into Metro Bis and Antonio’s for a Thanksgiving feast.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving is the day of the lovely Simsbury Celebrates holiday event, which is the big Christmas kick-off celebration, and worth sticking around for. The streets are lined with Christmas decorations, vendors, fire pits for roasting s’mores, and so much more. You’ll also get to watch a fireworks show, enjoy delicious food, and meet Santa.
Where To Stay In Simsbury For Thanksgiving
š Simsbury Inn: Offering a wonderful Thanksgiving buffet, and cozy accommodations that feel perfectly New England, you’ll find it’s more like a home away from home. Complimentary continental breakfast is included with your stay, and you’ll also get to enjoy an indoor pool and on-site dining.
š Click here to check Thanksgiving rates & availability at the Simsbury Inn
Weather in Simsbury during Thanksgiving averages around 50Ā°F during the day, and 30Ā°F at night.
What Kind Of Weather To Expect
Weather in New England the week of Thanksgiving will vary just a bit depending on where you go. The northern mountain regions of New Hampshire and Vermont will be colder with a higher chance of snow than places like coastal Massachusetts or Connecticut.
For each getaway I suggested, I included the average weather temperatures to help you gauge the type of climate to expect. But generally speaking, you should anticipate colder weather between 40-50Ā°F during the day, and nights dipping down anywhere from 20-40Ā°F.
I always suggest that a few days before you leave, you check the forecasts to get a better idea of weather. Since winter isn’t quite in full swing in New England around Thanksgiving, it’s not guaranteed it’ll be snowy or super chilly, and it can be different every year.
What To Pack For Your Thanksgiving Getaway
This will depend on what kind of getaway you’re planning, and can vary if you’re looking to do a ski getaway, a relaxing stay at a cozy inn, or are hoping to do some hiking. So of course, plan to pack for any special activities you’re hoping to do!
In addition to that, I also recommend checking the weather reports a few days before you leave to confirm the forecast. Even in late November, New England weather can be a bit all over the place. I’ve had Thanksgivings in the area where it was warm enough to eat outside, and then some years, we had a few inches of snow.
Generally, though, here are a few things to bring with you for a Thanksgiving getaway:
- Sweaters and light layers
- Jeans
- Thanksgiving dinner outfit if where you’re having dinner is a bit fancier (many places are casual, but double check!)
- Fall boots (unless the forecast is calling for lots of snow, then pack snow boots š)
- Sneakers for walking around towns to explore, or go shopping (fall boots work just as well)
- Coat or jacket that will keep you warm, especially in the evenings
- Fall hats, gloves, and scarves
- Festive Christmas or holiday sweaters if you plan to stay through the weekend and attend a holiday event!
Is Thanksgiving In New England Expensive?
Not necessarily! In fact, I can usually find some pretty awesome hotel rates during Thanksgiving week. Even though it’s a holiday, it’s also a transitional time in the region, meaning it’s not quite fall season, but it’s also not quite prime holiday, winter, or ski season yet, either (although, as mentioned earlier in the post, you can most definitely go skiing during Thanksgiving in this area!). So November tends to be a cheaper month to visit in general.
That said, you’ll find that some hotels will be nicely discounted, while others may charge a bit more the week or night of Thanksgiving. But I’ve seen Boston, Newport, Providence, and coastal destinations with hotel prices that are very reasonable for this region (which tends to be expensive compared to the rest of the U.S.).
Plymouth in Massachusetts will typically not offer as many discounted rates, since it’s the most famous Thanksgiving destination in the entire country. But everywhere else? Deals can for sure be found! I think this time of the year is one of the best kept secrets in terms of traveling to New England on a budget.
Is New England Better To Visit For Thanksgiving Or Christmas?
This really depends on the vibe you’re going for, as these two holidays each have their own distinct feel. However, with being so close to one another, it easy to have both in the same trip!
Since the day after Thanksgiving in the U.S. is the official kick-off to the holiday season with Black Friday shopping, many stores and towns will begin to put up their Christmas decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving. Many places will also have holiday events that weekend, too.
That said, I personally love both holidays in this region. I would recommend Thanksgiving if you’re hoping for more of a fall feel to your trip, with a fantastic (and filling!) dining experience. If you’d like to visit during Christmas for all the quaint town celebrations and decorations, I would plan a visit starting the first weekend in December or later, as all Christmas decorations are usually up by then.
You may also enjoy:
- New England In November: Is It Worth Visiting?
- Maine In November: What To Expect & Things To Do
- Ultimate Guide To Fall In New England
- Best Christmas Towns In New England
- Where To See The Best Christmas Lights In Massachusetts
- Best Winter Getaways In New England (Even For Non-Skiers!)
- Best New England Islands Worth Visiting
- Best Time To Visit Vermont
- Wonderfully Romantic Getaways From Boston
That’s A Wrap On Spending Thanksgiving In New England
And there you have it – the inside scoop on all the best and coziest places to go for Thanksgiving in New England. This area is just packed with truly perfect places to spend this holiday – everywhere from Plymouth in Massachusetts to the mountains of New Hampshire has something wonderful to do to relax or enjoy nature this time of the year. And of course, you’ll find spectacular dinner experiences along the way.
